Which component of culture encompasses human technology and tools?

The correct answer is material culture, which refers to the physical objects, resources, and spaces that people use to define their culture. This includes human technology and tools, as well as any tangible items that people create or use in their daily lives. Material culture reflects the values, beliefs, and practices of a society and can provide insight into how people interact with their environment and with one another.

In the context of the options, non-material culture pertains to the intangible aspects of culture, such as beliefs, values, and norms. Cognitive culture relates to the knowledge systems and ways of thinking that individuals or groups possess. Subcultures are smaller cultural groups within a larger culture, often defined by unique characteristics, interests, or practices. Material culture is distinct because it directly relates to the physical manifestations of culture, such as tools and technologies, making it the appropriate choice in this case.